Hotel Watch: Staycation at Avenue Suites

Avenue Suites adjacent to Georgetown is a perfect spot for a late summer staycation. (Photo courtesy Avenue Suites)

Who’s ready to let go of summer? Not me, as I have an innate reluctance to accept change of any kind, especially when that change involves the weather turning cooler, pools closing for the season and summer produce dwindling at farmers’ markets.

Luckily, for those of us reluctant to turn the calendar page, Avenue Suites can make summer linger on just a little bit longer. The “End of Summer Staycation” package at the all suites-hotel on the edge of Georgetown is great for couples or families looking to partake in local activities and sweet treats.

I checked into Avenue Suites a few weeks ago with my daughter (10) and son (7) for a late summer overnight getaway. We took Metro’s new Silver Line from Wiehle-Reston to Foggy Bottom—a short three blocks from the hotel. We had requested early check-in, and admittedly arrived very, very early—before lunch. The accommodating front desk staff said that housekeeping needed just a bit more time, and held our luggage for us while we whiled away the time playing one of the board games scattered on the tables in the hip yet comfy lobby.

Our 600-square-foot king suite had a bedroom with a king-sized bed (for me), living room with queen-size sleeper sofa (for the kids), and a 42-inch flat panel TV in each. We also had complimentary Wi-Fi, a fully outfitted kitchen with a Keurig coffee maker, microwave and refrigerator, dishware, silverware, basic pots and pans and utensils, and a dining room table and chairs. I also appreciated the L’Occitane en Provence spa products in the bathroom.

If you wish, Avenue Suites’ “Stock the Fridge” program lets guests check on items to be delivered to their room from Trader Joe’s, with themes including “Indulgences” and “Health Nut.” Not to mention, Trader Joe’s is a block away from the hotel—perfect if you are planning on entertaining in your suite, or planning to prepare a quick meal.

As promised as part of the package, a pint of milk chocolate Dolcezza Gelato was waiting for us in the freezer, along with a coupon on the table for a one-hour kayak or canoe rental for two people at Key Bridge Boathouse.

Suites include either a king or two queen beds, as well as a living room with sleeper sofa, stocked kitchen and dining room table. (Photo courtesy Avenue Suites)

You really can’t beat the Avenue Suites’ location. In addition to being a short walk to the Foggy Bottom Metro station, where you can grab the orange, blue and silver lines, it’s a ten to fifteen minute stroll to the red line at Farragut North stop, which we took to enjoy an afternoon at the National Zoo complete with great panda sightings. After we returned late that afternoon, I was so pleasantly surprised to see a staff member pouring a pitcher of complimentary Mojitos in the lobby—a welcome treat for guests each day from 5 to 6 p.m.

M Street in Georgetown and the Georgetown Waterfront are a short walk west, where we headed on that perfectly comfortable August evening to grab dinner, and try Jon Arroyo’s new bar creations–spirited as well as mocktails–at Farmers Fishers Bakers. A few of my other favorite area dining options within walking distance include District Commons and Fiola Mare.

Onsite, A Bar is a good spot to grab a drink and bite. It’s not open for lunch, and dishes tend to be more suited for noshing and sharing than for comprising a full meal, with options like meet and cheese boards, sliders, tuna tartare with chips, salads, sandwiches and flatbreads. Happy hour specials Monday to Friday from 5-7 p.m. include $5 specials on beer, wine and cocktails.

Avenue Suites’ “End of Summer Staycation” is available through September 15. It includes the aforementioned options, as well as $10 off valet parking for the evening, late checkout at 2 PM, and an upgraded suite type. There is a two-night minimum, with the first night’s prepayment required.

As a pet-friendly hotel, four-legged family members are welcome, and will enjoy amenities including Modus Hotels pet bowls, pet treats, dog waste bags, toys and a list of neighborhood parks. A $25 pet fee applies.

Kelly Magyarics is a wine, spirits and lifestyle writer, and wine educator, in the Washington, D.C. area. She can be reached through her website, www.kellymagyarics.com, or on Twitter or Instagram @kmagyarics.